DIG Bimshani Jasin Arachchi who was the first female Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) in Sri Lanka History has been removed from her position as the DIG in charge of the Police Ombudsman Range.

She had been removed from her position with effect from 01 May 2021.

Reportedly, her staff was also requested to report to another DIG, following her removal from the position.

Meanwhile, a letter was forwarded to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) requesting that DIG Jasin Arachchi be reinstated as the DIG of the Police Ombudsman Range or be assigned a position suitable for her position.

When inquired from Police Media Spokesman DIG Ajith Rohana in this regard, he stated that this transfer is only one step in the process of restructuring the police. He further stated that the relevant DIG will be appointed to a new post soon.

Previously, a petition was filed before the Supreme Court by 32 Senior Superintendents of Police (SSP), including SSP Ruwan Gunasekera alleging that the DIG Jasin Arachchi's promotion has violated standard promotion procedure followed by the Sri Lanka Police.

According to the petitioners, no female police officer in the country can be appointed as the DIG of Police as the word ‘women’ is not mentioned in the regulations pertaining to promotions.

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), the National Police Commission, the Attorney General, and the recently appointed female DIG of Police Bimshani Jasin Arachchi have been named as respondents.

The case is set to be taken up again on 18 May.